HUGUET

Penedes, Spain

The historic Can Feixes estate is situated on gravely slopes above the 400-meter level in an amphitheater at the tree line near the famous Montserrat pinnacle, which forms Penedes' northern boundary. The farthest Penedes vineyard from the Mediterranean, temperature variation here is more Continental in its extremes, the drier climate more conducive to grape health. The altitude and mountain terrain constitute the tiny viticultural home of the Parellada variety, locally known as Montonec ("grape of the mountain"). Recognized as the region's Grand Cru, Can Feixes sells the majority of its grapes, and subsequently the best wines, are kept for production under the family label. Total vineayrd area of approximately 120 hectares is planted to Parellada, Macabeo, Chardonnay, Tempranillo and Cabernet, with small amounts of Pinot Noir.

Vineyard plantation at Can Feixes is documented back to the year 1400, registered by Sr. Jaume Feixes. The estate has continuously produced wine since 1690, the Huguet family acquired the property following an interruption in descendency at the turn of the 20th century.

Today's modern bodega includes subterranean aging cellars with pupitres for manual riddling of the CAVA, bottle storage and oak cooperage for the aging of red wine. Viticulture and the enology are handled respectively by brothers Joan and Josep Maria Huguet.

Only free-run must from rigorously selected grapes are used. Bottled production averages 6,000 cases per year depending on vintage, including a fragrant, firm and minerally dry white and superb Cava.